Senate sets hearing on state operating budget for May 9

By GARRY RAYNOState House Bureau

CONCORD - The Senate Finance Committee will hear from the public on the state's proposed operating budget next month.

.Public hearings on the $11 billion biennial operating budget that would go into effect July 1 will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. May 9 in Representatives Hall...The House approved its budget proposal earlier this month, now the Senate is working on its plan...The Senate Finance Committee has been hearing from state departments about their concerns and will soon begin deciding where to make changes...Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Morse, R-Salem, has expressed concerns about the House's revenue estimates for the Medicaid Enhancement Tax on hospitals' net patient receipts as well as the uncompensated care program for hospitals, charter schools, school building aid and several other areas...The Senate has to act on its budget proposal by June 6...